Hackers can exploit holes in your software, you could run into a novel virus before the definitions of your antivirus tool are updated, or you might fall for one of many new phishing emails. You will never be 100% safe.

One more precaution you can take is to stay up to date with the latest threats. Learn about the traps before you’re stuck in the middle of one.

This article summarizes feeds, email newsletters, and other means of staying informed about the latest new computer viruses and phishing emails.

This news blog relies on several sources for its information, including Sophos, Secunia, MessageLabs, and SecureWorks. It’s the perfect central news resource for the curious, but not overly worried among you.

Sophos is a company that has specialized in the protection of information. They offer a range of products, from data encryption to email security. They also provide several RSS and Atom feeds that addresses the latest threats.

Trend Micro became famous for its browser-based virus and malware scanning tool HouseCall. Meanwhile, the tool has grown into a full-blown standalone and browser-independent application.

Apart from a list of informational RSS Feeds (see below), Trend Micro also provides two interesting tools: the Threat Resource Center widget, which you can add to your website, Facebook, or Google page; and the ThreatWatch app for your iPhone. Obviously, both of them will alert you about new security threats. Get both of the tools here.

RSS Feeds:

Despite often being criticized for its notoriously bulky software, Symantec remains one of the leaders in the field. Naturally, the ‘Threat Landscape’ is closely watched by this company. The Threat Explorer provides an overview of the current threats, risks, and vulnerabilities.

Below are the respective feed links. The threats can also be viewed in Symantec’s ‘Internet Threat Meter‘, a desktop widget for Windows and Mac, powered by Yahoo! Widgets.

RSS Feeds:

McAfee is best known for its antivirus program. Being one of the major players in the field, the company must frequently update its antivirus definitions to keep its customers safe.

McAfee provides an overview of current threat activity. At the bottom of the list you can also sign up to McAfee’s ‘Security News and Special Offers’ newsletter (see link below), which promises to shower you with virus alerts.

Newsletters:

If you’re neither interested in RSS Feeds, nor email newsletters, you may be a social network addict, who prefers to work with status updates. Below are some Twitter resources related to virus, malware, and phishing alerts.

Twitter

With these feeds and updates to your email inbox you should always know what is waiting to get you on the other side of your security setup. What is the worst security threat you ever had to deal with on your work or home computer?

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Comment

Name *

Email *

Nat Jay

August 18, 2010 at 4:48 am

Most of still still rely on traditional antivirus & firewall updates to keep us safe. Given the time constraints of our daily routines, I'd imagine that a lot of us would simply be unaware of new attacks unless we tuned into the news or were informed by others. Me personally, I usually check up on Consumer Threat Alerts.

Tina has been writing about consumer technology for over a decade. She holds a Doctorate in Natural Sciences, a Diplom from Germany, and an MSc from Sweden. Her analytical background has helped her excel as a technology journalist at MakeUseOf, where she's now managing keyword research and operations.